SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — Six people have died from leptospirosis in the Ilocos Region since January, prompting the Department of Health (DOH) to warn residents against unnecessary contact with floodwaters amid continued rains.

The Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit recorded 85 leptospirosis cases and six deaths from January 1 to August 8, 2026, with Pangasinan accounting for the most cases at 46, followed by La Union with 13, Ilocos Norte with 12, and Ilocos Sur and Dagupan City with six each.

Although the figure is 52 percent lower than the 177 cases recorded during the same period last year, the DOH said the deaths highlight the continuing danger posed by floodwater exposure.

“Floodwater exposure is not without risk, especially when there are wounds or breaks in the skin,” said Dr. Rheuel C. Bobis, head of the Regional Communicable Disease Cluster.

Leptospirosis is a potentially fatal bacterial infection caused by exposure to water or soil contaminated by the urine of infected animals, particularly rats. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts or wounds.

The DOH advised residents to avoid wading through floodwaters whenever possible. Those who cannot avoid exposure should wear waterproof boots, cover their wounds, and immediately wash exposed areas with soap and clean water.

Residents should seek medical attention if they develop fever, headache, muscle or calf pain, vomiting, chills, abdominal pain, red eyes, or yellowing of the skin or eyes after flood water exposure.

Bobis also warned against taking antibiotics such as doxycycline without medical advice, stressing that the need for preventive medication depends on the type and extent of exposure.

“Doxycycline is a prescription medicine,” he said, urging residents to consult the nearest health center for proper assessment.